New Strategies and Challenges for Nanobiotechnology in Agriculture

Nanotechnology involves the study and use of materials at the nanometric scale, exploiting the different physiochemical properties exhibited by these materials at the nanoscale. This technology is becoming increasingly important for the agricultural sector. Promising applications are already in development in the areas of drug delivery systems using bioactive nanoencapsulation, biosensors to detect and quantify pathogens, chemical and organic compounds, food composition alteration, and high-performance sensors and film to preserve fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, the taste of food and food safety can be improved by new nanomaterials. The huge benefits from this technology have led to increases in market investments in nanoscience and nanoproducts in several areas including agriculture. This article reviews the strategies, challenges, applications, and benefits of nanobiotechnology in different areas of agriculture, including bioactive nanoencapsulation, edible thin films, packages and nanosensors. After extensive review, it is possible to conclude that nanotechnology advances increase the safety and quality of food, decrease the time for pathogen detection, increase the safe application of pesticides and consequently decrease environmental pollution.